Clip your way into savings
No shame in the save!

Make coupon clipping a routine part of your lifestyle. When coupon clipping, clip based on "quality" not "quantity." That means, don't clip everything that catches your eye. Many coupons "advertise" new products to encourage you to try them out. So just because that new mango fruit smoothie drink is $2 off doesn't mean you should buy it, especially if you hate mangoes. The same goes for using brand names versus generic products. If the coupon is for one brand of garbage bags, but the generic brand you usually use is still cheaper and practically the same, stick with the generic. If you don't see coupons for items you regularly use, call the manufacturer. Many manufacturers will send coupons if you request them. You should also look for flyers from stores that advertise that they double or triple the value of coupons. (It may even be worth the trip to a neighboring town to shop at another market.)

Organization is a crucial part of the coupon-clipping process. Don't just stash all your coupons in a wallet or at the bottom of your purse. Use an envelope, notecard box, diaper wipes container, or zippered plastic bag to store them. Then, divide up the coupons with large index cards or store-bought dividers. Label the dividers by department, like produce, meats, etc. Sort coupons within each department alphabetically, like grapes before strawberries in your produce section. You can be even more organized by arranging the sections based on how you visit the supermarket. Perhaps you hit the produce aisle first, then proceed to cereals and frozen foods, and end with dairy. Whatever your route, your coupons will be in perfect order. Keep your coupon holder with you at all times - in your purse or glove compartment. That way, you will have it even for unplanned shopping trips.

A common coupon problem is expired coupons. One way to prevent this problem is to get 12 different marker colors. Associate a color with each month. February could be pink for Valentine's Day, March may be green for St. Patrick's Day, October is orange for Halloween. When you clip coupons, dot your coupons with the coordinating color (coupons that expire 2/25 get pink). That way, you can easily spot which coupons are about to expire and use them in a timely manner. You may even consider planning your menu around expired coupons so they don't go to waste.

So start clipping and watch your savings soar!

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